By junctioneerOn January 5, 2017In The JunctionWith Comments Off on The electronically controlled pneumatic brakes which would greatly increase safety for railways, delayed by USA government. ughPermalink

The Junction, bordered by a old used hump yard, to the north and a active two track right of way, which runs closest to the parks and housing, has a history of track failures and derailments. Although none have been serious, where people or property has been hurt or damaged in decades.

Yet the technology legacy of tank cars that transport chemicals and oil, as well as food items, being old and outdated in many areas should be concerning to anyone living near the tracks. Stalling the ECP brake upgrades lets an unsafe condition continue.

US Government report on science behind ECP brakes stalls 2021 deadline for installing the systems on certain tank cars.

ECP brake provision was part of the FRA rule that specified sturdier tank cars for transporting flammable liquids. A good explanation of the brakes can be found here

Unlike conventional brakes, the system sends an electronic signal to trigger all brakes on the train simultaneously, by cable or radio signal. Opponents argue that the response of standard air brakes has been greatly im-proved. Response is faster because brakes can be applied from the head end and dis-tributed power units, or two-way end-of-train devices.